People living with alcohol and other drug (AOD) dependency in South Eastern NSW will have access to more tailored support, thanks to the latest round of grants announced by COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW PHN. 

COORDINARE’s Acting CEO Melissa Neal said despite a range of alcohol and other drug (AOD) services and programs in the region, new approaches are needed to engage and support priority populations facing higher risks and barriers. 

“Each program is tailored to improve access to holistic AOD programs to prevent and reduce harm for underserved communities, and to support a particular identified need in specific geographic regions. For example, Wollongong Homeless Hub and Housing Services (WHHHS) will provide AOD harm minimisation support to people in crisis accommodation and drop-in services in Wollongong,” she said. 

Directions Health Services will support women affected by Family, Domestic and Sexual Violence (FDSV) who are also dealing with alcohol and other drug issues.  

The Strong Sistas program aims to integrate responses for vulnerable women to build participants’ capacity to navigate the complex challenges that sit at the intersection of FDSV and substance use. The initiative offers therapeutic support, peer groups, case management and warm referrals to complementary services in the lower Shoalhaven, Eurobodalla and northern Bega Valley areas. 

Directions Health CEO Bronwyn Hendry said: “These programs provide vital, integrated support for women living with violence, particularly where substance use is prevalent in the home. We’re here to listen, to walk with you, and to help you support your goals for you and your family - with dignity, strength and connection.” 

The Strong Sistas program will support women aged 18 and over, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women and those living in regional or remote areas with limited access to services. 

The Safe Pathways pilot by WHHHS will deliver integrated care aimed at reducing housing breakdowns and improving tenancy outcomes. 

WHHHS CEO Mandy Booker, said: “We know that housing instability and substance use often go hand-in-hand. By co-locating AOD and peer workers within our services, we’re creating a wraparound support system that meets people where they are. This initiative is about restoring dignity, stability and hope.” 

The program will support people aged 18 and over from high-need populations, including those experiencing homelessness, escaping violence, exiting rehabilitation, or from LGBTQIA+ and CALD communities. 

COORDINARE’s AOD grants are funded under the Australian Government’s National Ice Action Strategy and National Drug Strategy. Updates on grant opportunities are available via this link.